Driving to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park: Everything You Need to Know

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is the crown jewel of the Big Island — and the only way to truly explore it is with your own vehicle. Whether you're coming from Kona or Hilo, here's your complete driving guide.

From Kona Side (2.5 hours)

Take Highway 11 south through Kealakekua, Captain Cook, and the coffee country. Stop at Punalu'u Black Sand Beach to see Hawaiian green sea turtles basking on the shore. The drive passes through diverse landscapes — from dry lava fields to lush rainforest.

From Hilo Side (45 minutes)

The shorter route along Highway 11 climbs gradually through the rainforest belt. Stop at the Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut Factory for free samples.

Inside the Park

The two main drives are:

- Crater Rim Drive — An 11-mile loop around the Kilauea caldera with stops at the Jaggar Museum overlook, Thurston Lava Tube, and steam vents.

- Chain of Craters Road — A 19-mile descent from the crater to the coast, ending at the Holei Sea Arch. This is where you'll see the most dramatic recent lava flows.

Best Vehicle Choice

Any vehicle works for the paved park roads, but an SUV gives you better comfort on the sometimes rough shoulders and lets you carry all your gear — hiking boots, rain jackets, water, and a flashlight for the lava tubes.

Night Viewing

If Kilauea is actively erupting (check the USGS website), the glow is best seen after dark. The park stays open 24 hours. Bring warm layers — it's 4,000 feet elevation and surprisingly chilly at night.

Explore the Big Island on your terms. ReefRide SUVs and Jeeps are waiting at Kona and Hilo airports — with hotel & vacation rental delivery available on request. No counters, no lines.